Bookkeeper & Office Manager

Bookkeeper & Office Manager required for a reputable company based in East London, Eastern CapeJob Summary:Seeking a Senior Bookkeeper to manage and oversee the financial records and accounting functions of an attorney practice. The ideal candidate will be highly detail-oriented, organized, and experienced in bookkeeping for professional services, particularly in a legal environment. The Senior Bookkeeper will ensure accuracy in financial transactions, compliance with accounting standards, and smooth financial operations within the practice.Key Responsibilities:Financial Record Keeping: Maintain and manage accurate and up-to-date financial records for the practice, including ledgers, journals, and client trust accounts.Billing & Invoicing: Prepare and issue client invoices for legal services rendered, ensuring compliance with the firm’s billing policies, rates, and terms.Trust Account Management: Oversee the operation of the firm's trust accounts, ensuring compliance with the Legal Practitioners Act, local regulations, and firm policies regarding client funds.Payroll Processing: Administer the payroll for all staff, ensuring accurate salary calculations, deductions, and tax submissions, while complying with relevant labor laws.Financial Reporting: Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements for management review.Reconciliation: Perform regular bank reconciliations, reconciliations of client trust accounts, and other financial accounts to ensure accuracy and identify discrepancies.VAT and Tax Compliance: Manage VAT returns and tax filings, ensuring the firm is in compliance with all local tax regulations.Client Trust Fund Management: Ensure proper documentation and accounting for all client funds, including managing deposits, disbursements, and maintaining accurate records for auditing purposes.Accounts Payable and Receivable: Oversee and manage all accounts payable and receivable processes, ensuring timely payments and collections.Financial Policies & Procedures: Develop and implement financial policies and procedures to improve efficiency, control, and financial accuracy within the practice.Audit Support: Assist with internal and external audits, providing necessary documentation and financial records as requested.Mentoring: Supervise junior bookkeeping staff, providing guidance and support as needed to ensure accurate bookkeeping practices are followed.Key Skills & Qualifications:Education: A Diploma or Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field. A professional accounting qualification (e.g., SAIPA, CIMA, or ACCA) would be advantageous.Experience: At least 5-7 years of bookkeeping or accounting experience, preferably within a legal or professional services environment.Legal Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with the unique financial requirements and regulations of law firms, including client trust accounting and compliance with the Legal Practitioners Act.Technical Skills: Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks, or similar) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word).Attention to Detail: Strong ability to maintain accurate financial records and perform reconciliations with a high level of precision.Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines, prioritizing work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to liaise with colleagues, clients, and external parties.Problem-Solving: Ability to identify discrepancies or issues in financial data and develop solutions to resolve them.Ethical and Confidential: Strong understanding of confidentiality and ethical standards, especially regarding client trust funds and financial information.Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should you not receive a response within 14 days please consider your application unsuccessful. We will keep your CV on our database for any other relevant roles that may arise.